#United States #Chicago #Bank of America #Chicago Marathon #Culligan

Culligan International Partners with Bank of America Chicago Distance Series

On March 18, 2025, Culligan International, a leader in the water transformation industry, proudly announced its new role as a Supporting Sponsor for the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series. This strategic partnership aims to significantly reduce single-use plastic bottle consumption during the city's prominent running events, ensuring participants have access to clean and delicious water in an eco-friendly manner.

Culligan will supply filtered water through reusable aluminum bottles at the finish line, as well as hydration stations throughout events including the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle, the Bank of America Chicago 13.1, and the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. This initiative not only promotes runner hydration but also aligns with broader environmental goals.

Environmental Impact

The collaboration between Culligan and the Distance Series is poised to have a remarkable effect on the local environment, addressing the serious issue of plastic pollution. In 2024 alone, Culligan helped offset the use of 150,000 plastic water bottles during the Chicago Marathon. This partnership will escalate that effort, committing to provide over 200,000 aluminum bottles across the three featured races in 2025. Each aluminum bottle serves as a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic, which can take centuries to decompose.

Scott Clawson, CEO of Culligan International, expressed pride in this collaboration, highlighting Culligan's roots in Chicago and its mission to improve water quality worldwide. The partnership is particularly meaningful, as it embodies Culligan's ongoing commitment to sustainability by minimizing plastic waste while providing superior water quality.

Initiatives at Events

Culligan plans several sustainable initiatives throughout the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series:

• - Reusable Aluminum Bottles: Participants will receive co-branded aluminum bottles at the finish line, which can be reused and recycled efficiently, given aluminum's 57% recycling rate—significantly higher than the 29% for plastic.
• - Hydration Stations: Dedicated refill stations will be available throughout the venues, encouraging runners and spectators alike to refill their bottles, promoting sustainable behaviors at every turn.
• - Silicone Cups: Lightweight and collapsible silicone cups are designed for convenience, enabling runners to carry them easily and use them beyond race day.

Carey Pinkowski, Executive Race Director, expressed excitement for this expanded partnership with Culligan, emphasizing a long-standing commitment to sustainability in their events since 2010. The collaboration marks a significant step in reducing reliance on single-use plastics and strengthening their sustainability focus by offering recyclable water bottles at each finish line.

About Culligan International

Founded in 1936, Culligan International has established itself as a recognizable name in the water treatment industry, with operations across more than 90 countries and over 15,000 employees worldwide. Their commitment to sustainability is evident, with recent reports indicating a reduction of approximately 40 billion single-use plastic bottles, saving over 600 million kilograms of plastic annually.

Culligan’s product range includes cutting-edge technologies that address a variety of water quality needs, promising convenience to customers at home, work, and on-the-go. This partnership with the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series is a continuation of their legacy, showcasing effective collaboration towards sustainable solutions.

As the distances runners embark on during these iconic races, they can indulge in the knowledge that by participating, they are not just running for personal achievements but also contributing to a larger purpose of protecting our planet.